Herb Weaver's Journal #152 - 8th July 2025

Herb Weaver’s Journal

Ginger

This fabulous root has so many magical and health benefits, it pains me we cannot grow it sufficiently in the UK. Luckily it is cheap to buy in both fresh and dried forms. Filled with both Vitamin C and B6, iron, potassium and magnesium it makes it a great health allie.

Health wise, ginger is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, it contains compounds called gingerol, that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially protecting against chronic diseases.

Ginger is probably most used for helping cold symptoms and as a nausea remedy. It helps to calm the digestive system and quell sickness from pregnancy, chemo treatment and  other illnesses. As a digestive aid it stimulates the enzymes that improve the absorption of nutrients in the gut, it helps reduce gut inflammation and eases indigestion and bloating too. 

Studies have been completed on ginger being used for pain management for issues such as arthritis and menstrual cramps, although it’s analgesic properties are not as high as some other herbs.

The plants supports cold symptoms as it is an immune system booster, so hot drinks like honey, ginger and lemon and ginger tinctures work well as does fire water.

Some studies have shown that regular intake of fresh ginger helps blood sugar control and helps improve how our bodies deal with insulin, so ginger is very beneficial to diabetics and pre-diabetic patients. As it is also paired with weight management it can support type 2 diabetics who have a weight issue with that as well. As it helps to inhibit fat storage.

Over all heart health can be improved by lower BP and cholesterol levels and even cognitive function has been seen to be improved, with memory also being increased.

Ginger can be used in herbal tea, tincture, mixed in with meals such as ginger cake, curries and other savoury and sweet delights . If you don’t like the taste you can also buy in tablet form to ensure you still get all the same health benefits.

It is totally safe to eat daily and you can consume between 3-4g a day to see potential changes.